I'm an interior expert – here's my five tips for creating a Mediterranean garden in time for summer

The Sun

22-05-2025

FOR many of us, a Mediterranean garden style is the epitome of outdoor living.
Not only does it create a warm and relaxing atmosphere, but it can transport us to stunning coastal areas like France, Greece, Italy and Spain.
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So it's no wonder that homeowners would love to turn their outdoor spaces into a Mediterranean paradise.
However, with the cost-of-living crisis still having a tight hold on people's purses, it can be hard to fork out on products for the garden.
Luckily, experts have revealed exactly how we can achieve this gorgeous look without breaking the bank.
Lucy Steele, a paint and interiors expert from Valspar Paint, has shared her five clever tricks for creating the Mediterranean aesthetic without spending a fortune.
She said: "The Mediterranean style is all about laid-back charm, sun-soaked colour palettes, rustic textures, and a mix of old-world elegance with natural elements.
"But transforming your space into a Mediterranean haven doesn't have to drain your savings.
"Here are some affordable hacks to help bring the breezy, coastal warmth of Southern Europe into your home, without booking a trip to Santorini.
"Mediterranean design is relaxed and unpretentious.
"Don't overthink it! Focus on comfort, simplicity, and a connection to nature.
"Even a few small touches can transport your home from ordinary to Mediterranean bliss."
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Embrace a nature-inspired colour palette
You might not realise it, but the colours you choose to use in your garden can really set the tone of the space.
And Lucy says you should opt for a nature-inspired colour palette if you want to have a Mediterranean feel.
She said: "Think creamy whites, burnt oranges, sandy yellows, vibrant greens, and blues.
"You don't need to repaint the entire house, just focus on small areas. Try painting a single accent wall in warm terracotta or soft sand.
"The great thing about a Mediterranean palette is that it relies on rich neutrals, which are easy to incorporate throughout the home."
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Create a garden oasis
A Mediterranean haven is all about creating the impression that summer never ends, which in turn creates a blissfully relaxing atmosphere.
And Lucy revealed that creating your own garden oasis is key to achieving this.
The expert revealed: "A Mediterranean garden creates the look of everlasting summer, full of colour, fragrant plants and flowers.
"It's the perfect inspiration for your garden.
"Herbs are a key part of a Mediterranean garden, so head to the herb section of your garden centre to form the backbone of your planting."
Focus on textures
It's not just colours that can have an impact on your outdoor space - textures are also important.
Lucy explains: "Mediterranean homes are all about texture, like stone tiles and rustic woods.
"For a low-cost hack, use a peel-and-stick faux stone backsplash instead of real stone or pricey plaster in your kitchen and bathroom.
"Wicker, rattan, and seagrass are also Mediterranean must-haves! They bring warmth, texture, and rustic island charm.
"Check second-hand shops and charity shops for vintage baskets or trays, and use things like placemats to add an earthy layer to your existing decor."
Hang sheer, breezy curtains
You might think that curtains only belong inside the home, but Lucy says it's time to bring them outside.
To create the perfect Mediterranean paradise, you should hang a few light-coloured, sheer, breezy curtains around your space.
She advises: "Mediterranean homes soak in natural light, and heavy curtains completely block that vibe.
"Opt for sheer white or cream curtains to create a breezy feel throughout the home and encourage sunlight to shine through.
"If you're crafty, make your own curtains from inexpensive fabric like muslin or even linen-look curtains!"
Three colours to paint your fence to will make your garden look bigger
IN a bid to help homeowners enjoy their outdoor space, garden experts have revealed how homeowners can be creative with the space they have.
And if you want to make your garden look bigger, they have a helpful trick up their sleeve. You might not realise it, but the colour of your fence can make a huge difference.
Matthew Lock, director of luxurious garden furniture specialists Luxus UK, revealed that painting your fence the right shade can trick the eye into thinking there's more space than there really is.
He said: "Light grey softens the boundaries of your garden, adding a subtle touch of elegance and allowing other design elements such as plants and garden furniture to stand out more.
'A soft shade of green can be another smart option, giving an earthy and homely look and feel and combining well with other greens in your garden such as your lawn or shrubs.
'Pastel colours in general, such as a soft pink or blue, are a popular choice in the UK, giving you a chance to make your space more vibrant without being domineering.
'Given that garden fence paint can start from around £10, you don't have to break the bank to give your outdoor space the transformation you want in time for summer.'
Use mirrors to reflect light
Mirrors aren't something you'd expect to see in the garden, but did you know they can make your outdoor space look bigger?
Lucy says adding a few around your space can create a gorgeous feature.
She explained: "Mediterranean interiors are airy and bright. Mirrors help bounce sunlight around.
"They are also a perfect feature for the garden, especially if you're working with limited space and sunlight.
"Mirrors can help blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless transition from the house to the garden, which is a classic feature of Mediterranean architecture.
"Again, look for secondhand mirrors at car boot sales or charity shops for a lower-cost addition to the home.
"Or upcycle your current mirrors by repainting the frames in antique gold or distressed white for a more aesthetic feel."
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